National Zoological Park

It’s hard not to fall in love with the precocious pandas at the National Zoo. The famous pair of Mei Xiang and Tian Tian are zoo superstars, but you’ll also find animals from every corner of the globe in this Woodley Park attraction.

DC Travel Inspiration

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Zoo is home to hundreds of animals, including elephants, gorillas and giant pandas. Admission to the 163-acre zoo is free.

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Pictured: Giant pandas at the Smithsonian's National Zoo

Giant pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian live at the Smithsonian's National Zoological Park as part of a program to help preserve the endangered species. Admission to the zoo is free.

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Pictured: Woodley Park Metro

The Woodley Park Metro puts you in walking distance of the National Zoo, plus boutiques and great sidewalk cafes.

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Pictured: Giant pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian

Mei Xiang and Tian Tian are the most famous residents of the Smithsonian National Zoological Park- Photo by Mehgan Murphy

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Pictured: Mei Xiang and Tian Tian at the National Zoo

A pair of giant pandas, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, are surely the National Zoo’s most popular attraction. Admission is free.

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Pictured: ZooLights at the National Zoo

The National Zoo has the wildest holiday attraction in town! The free ZooLights features environmentally friendly light displays, a tour on the National Zoo Choo Choo, a visit with Panda Claws, snow tubing on Lion/Tiger HIll and after hours keeper talks.

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Pictured: The Smithsonian National Zoo

The Smithsonian National Zoo is located on 163 acres in Rock Creek Park. The zoo features 2,000 animals of nearly 400 species, and is one of the most popular destinations for tourists of the District.- Photo by Jen Zoon